In this episode, Joe shares some of the specific how-tos of starting plants from seed, inside and out. There are plenty of reasons to do so. For starters, seed packets cost far less than purchasing individual plants. Extra seed can be saved from year to year. Even with the additional expense of lighting, growing containers, and heating, these are largely one-time expenses and may already be things you have around or can find inexpensively.
Perhaps our favorite reason for growing from seeds is the varieties available to you are countless. When purchasing plants, you only have the selection of what your favorite garden center or online vendors have already chosen to grow and offer for that season.
For example, some of the very best varieties of heirloom tomatoes and other vegetables are seldom if ever available as seedlings.
Another reason to grow from seed is that you control the timing of your growing season. Start seeds indoors early and plant them out when you like. Stagger your sowing and planting times for a rolling harvest. Extend your growing season, even experiment with growing veggies in the winter in a greenhouse if you like. It’s up to you!
In this episode, Chef Nathan Lyon also creates a fresh-from-the-garden apple and cabbage coleslaw that’s both sweet and refreshing – perfect for a bright autumn day.
For more information:
- Article: 10 Tips for Buying Seeds Online and in Catalogs by Joe Lamp’l
- Seed Starting Supplies – including trays and heat mats
- Resources for Soil Blocks – From Johnny’s Selected Seeds
- “What you should know about Soil Blocks” – From Johnny’s Selected Seeds
- Article: Seed Starting Tips
- Chef Nathan’s recipe for Apple Cabbage Coleslaw
About GGWTV
Growing A Greener World is a national gardening series on Public Television that features organic gardening, green living and farm to table cooking. Each episode focuses on compelling and inspirational people making a difference through gardening. This gardening series covers everything from edible gardening and sustainable agriculture to seasonal cooking and preserving the harvest.
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Dear Joe, thanks for all the amazing tips. As a Programmer at the Boys and Girls Club, I had my kids watch “Eco TV,” last summer, this June they’ll be watching and learning from you. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and inspiration.
My Best,
Veito Moretti
My pleasure Veito. Thank you for writing!
I’ve found paper pots to be a viable alternative to soil blocks. 🙂